Since, therefore, we have now been justified by his blood, much more shall we be saved by him from the wrath of God.

Romans 5:9 ESV

I have always been afraid of loud, angry men. I feared all men because I thought they were all angry. I even felt that way about God for many years.

I tried hard to stay out of the way of angry men, but I had little choice when I was in seventh-grade social studies. My teacher, Mr. Anderson, intimidated us with his booming voice and strict expectations. I slid down in my desk seat behind the person in front of me so I wouldn’t be called on, but that did not help.

We all had to give reports in front of the class. We were allowed to have notes, but if Mr. Anderson caught us relying on them too much, he took them away. He did that to me. My heart pounded, sweat beaded on my clenched hands, and my face was red hot with humiliation. I could not get back to my desk fast enough. I fought back tears while time seemed to stand still until the bell rang.

I lived with this fear until I remembered how Jesus on the cross was abandoned and humiliated as He suffered God’s wrath in my place.  He suffered in silence and darkness for three long hours. This act of love and sacrifice ensures that I am forever saved from God’s future wrath. I am safe and secure. And so are you, beloved one.

Having meditated on this truth, I now envision Jesus absorbing others’ anger unleashed on me. He is a shield between me and my attacker. He is my defender, and I can speak up or remove myself from the situation and refuse to be verbally abused.

Instead of running or hiding, we can stand firm and face fear with courage, empowered and strengthened by the Holy Spirit within us. It isn’t easy, but healing will take place 

Karen Sims